Naval Architecture

The Itsekiri War Canoes: Massive Naval Vessels Capable of Carrying 50–100 Warriors and Cannons

The Itsekiri (Ìtsèkírì) of the Niger Delta have long been recognized as one of the most maritime-oriented ethnic groups in West Africa. Central to their naval power were the massive Itsekiri war canoes, large, expertly carved wooden vessels capable of transporting 50–100 warriors, provisions, and sometimes light cannons. These vessels were crucial to Itsekiri…